1965–2025

figure 1

It is with deep regret that we announce the peaceful passing of Michael Lee, who faced a courageous 22-month battle with cancer until November 2025.

Michael was born in a rural village in Hong Kong before moving, during his adolescent years, to Elephant & Castle, London. Life there was challenging, and he took on significant responsibilities in caring for his family while adapting to a new and difficult environment. He would often recall walking past Guy's Hospital on his way to college, determined that one day he would study in the tower that had inspired him as a teenager.

Through hard work and unwavering determination, Michael was accepted to study dentistry at Guy's Hospital Dental School. He excelled academically, receiving several undergraduate prizes, and it was also here that he met fellow dental student Avni, who would later become his wife. Together they raised three children, Kiran, Ronan and Maya. Ronan would go on to follow in his parents' footsteps, studying dentistry at Guy's (King's College London).

After graduating with the Class of 1989, Michael undertook a series of SHO hospital posts before working as an associate at Yateley Dental Practice. In 1995 he established his own practice, Leicester Square Dental Clinic, which he developed into a respected central London surgery and which continues to thrive under Ronan's leadership.

He was known for his calm clinical manner and gentle approach to nervous patients, with many long-standing patients continued to travel across the UK and abroad to see him, valuing his integrity, kindness and clinical consistency.

Michael remained closely connected to the Guy's Hospital alumni, regularly supporting King's College London and establishing the M S O Lee Prize for Crown and Bridgework, a legacy that reflects his commitment to clinical excellence and the education of future dentists.

Michael will be remembered for his integrity, determination, generosity and deep devotion to both his family, friends and his profession.

Ronan Lee